The much-anticipated Nagaland CineFest 2025 commenced on February 28 at Heritage, Kohima, with a strong emphasis on the creative economy and its role in shaping the future of cinema. Organized by the Department of Information & Public Relations (DIPR) in collaboration with the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and the National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDCI), the two-day festival aims to promote local talent, encourage industry collaboration, and position Nagaland as a growing hub for creative storytelling. Under the theme “Celebrating Stories, Inspiring Minds,” the festival brings together filmmakers, industry professionals, and cinephiles to explore opportunities in filmmaking, digital media, and cross-cultural storytelling. Delivering the keynote address, Abu Metha, Advisor to the Chief Minister and Chairman of the Investment & Development Authority of Nagaland, highlighted the transformative power of cinema.
“Filmmaking documents today’s stories, preserves yesterday’s experiences, and leaves a legacy for future generations,” Metha stated. He emphasized how OTT platforms, digital content, and social media have democratized the industry, making it more accessible to budding filmmakers.
State’s Vision for Creative Economy
Metha also announced that the Nagaland government is mapping its creative economy, which includes cinema, sports, music, and entertainment. The initiative aims to identify growth areas, create employment opportunities, and strengthen industry partnerships. He further revealed plans to expand film-related events during the Hornbill Festival, collaborating with ministries, foreign embassies, and leading industry figures. “Nagaland has often been known for insurgency and instability,” Metha remarked. “We must reshape the narrative through our creative industries, allowing the world to see our culture, resilience, and talent in a new light.”
Workshops, Masterclasses, and Film Screenings
The festival’s opening day featured a lineup of masterclasses, industry talks, and film screenings, with experts from India and abroad engaging with aspiring filmmakers.
Masterclasses included:
Film Editing Techniques by Moses Mark (Singapore)
“Nagaland, New Horizons” by Bendang Walling
Additionally, CineConnect, a special discussion forum, hosted interactions with local filmmakers, encouraging dialogue on storytelling, production, and global cinema trends.
Screenings on Day 1 included:
“Eleison (Have Mercy)” – Directed by Raymond Colney (Mizoram)
“Chanchisoa (Expectation)” – Directed by Elvachisa Sangma (Meghalaya)
“Paper Airplanes” – Directed by Moses Mark (Singapore)
Speaking at the event, Kusa Fithu, Joint Secretary of Information & Public Relations, emphasized the educational and cultural value of films. “Cinema is not just entertainment—it enlightens, educates, and connects people across borders,” he stated.
